Increasing levels of air pollution are (1)______ for a higher incidence of respiratory diseases and other illnesses. Various studies carried out in Delhi reflect the correlation between air pollution and its (2)______ impacts. To tackle the problem of air pollution, a number of measures have been taken in the past, such as switching to (3)______ fuels, tightening vehicular emission limits, phasing out of old vehicles and maintenance of in-use vehicles, closing or relocating (4)______ industries, plantation activities, etc. However, a lot more still needs to be done if the capital desires to (5)______ clean air.
Select the most appropriate option for blank number 1.
responsible
Understanding the Comprehension Passage
The passage discusses the issue of increasing air pollution and its connection to health problems, specifically respiratory diseases. It also mentions measures taken to combat air pollution and highlights the need for further action.
The question asks us to select the most appropriate word to fill in blank number 1 in the sentence: "Increasing levels of air pollution are (1)______ for a higher incidence of respiratory diseases and other illnesses."
Analyzing Blank Number 1
Let's look at the sentence structure around blank (1): "Increasing levels of air pollution are ______ for a higher incidence..." This phrase typically requires an adjective followed by "for" to indicate cause or attribution. We are looking for a word that describes how increasing air pollution relates to the higher incidence of diseases. Air pollution is presented as the cause or contributing factor.
Evaluating the Options
Let's examine each option provided for blank number 1:
- responding
- responsive
- responsibility
- responsible
Option Analysis:
- Option 1: responding
"Responding" is the present participle of the verb "respond," which means to react. If we say "Air pollution is responding for...", it doesn't make grammatical sense in this context. Air pollution is not reacting *for* the diseases; it is causing them. - Option 2: responsive
"Responsive" is an adjective meaning reacting quickly or positively. For example, "responsive to treatment." If we say "Air pollution is responsive for...", it implies it is reacting *for* the diseases, which is incorrect based on the context. - Option 3: responsibility
"Responsibility" is a noun meaning a duty or obligation. If we say "Air pollution are responsibility for...", the grammar is incorrect. "Are" is a linking verb here, and it should be followed by an adjective or a noun phrase, but "responsibility" alone doesn't fit the required structure and meaning. - Option 4: responsible
"Responsible" is an adjective. The phrase "responsible for" means being the cause of something, especially something bad, or having a duty towards something. In the context of the sentence, "Increasing levels of air pollution are responsible for a higher incidence..." means that the increasing air pollution causes or contributes significantly to the higher incidence of respiratory diseases. This fits both the grammar and the meaning required by the passage.
Selecting the Most Appropriate Option
Based on the analysis, the phrase "responsible for" perfectly fits the context, indicating that air pollution is the cause of the health problems mentioned. The other options do not make grammatical or contextual sense.
Therefore, the most appropriate option for blank number 1 is "responsible".
Revision Table: Air Pollution and Health
| Concept | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Air Pollution | Presence of harmful substances in the air. |
| Respiratory Diseases | Illnesses affecting the lungs and breathing passages (e.g., asthma, bronchitis). |
| Incidence | The rate at which something, especially something undesirable, happens or occurs. |
| "Responsible for" | Means being the cause of something. |
Additional Information: Impact of Air Pollution
Air pollution is a significant environmental issue with widespread impacts. Beyond respiratory diseases, it is also linked to cardiovascular problems, neurological effects, and even certain cancers. Measures like those mentioned in the passage (cleaner fuels, emission limits, vehicle maintenance, controlling industries, tree plantation) are crucial steps in mitigating its effects. Tackling air pollution requires a combination of governmental policies, technological advancements, and individual actions.
Important Questions from Cloze Test
What would come in blank space (1)?
What would come in blank space (2)?
What would come in blank space (3)?
What would come in blank space (4)?
What would come in blank space (5)?
